How to Find a Car Key Lost Keys Replacement
Car keys can be a major problem when they're lost keys. The cost of replacing lost car key them can be several hundred dollars, dependent on the type and features that are included.
For traditional keys made of metal you can typically get a replacement from an hardware store or locksmith. You'll require your vehicle identification number (VIN) and then visit a dealer for a replacement smart key and get it paired with your car.
Identifying your keys
The most stressful thing that can occur to any driver is losing their car keys. It can be difficult to know what to say when you're unable to find your keys in your purse or pocket. To locate your keys it's best to remain in a calm state and follow a step by step approach.
Start by identifying the type of car keys you own. You can get a copy of an electronic key that opens the locks from a locksmith for an affordable cost If you own one. You can also replace your key with a dealer but it is usually more expensive.
Most newer cars use a smart key that activates a sensor within the car to allow keyless entry and ignition. These keys are more difficult to lose, as they have a built in feature that monitors where the key is. Keep your smart key close at hand or you may find it difficult to locate.
You should check your usual hiding spots first before you move on to other places. Check your coat pockets, shoes, and any bags you've carried with you during the day. You could also consider walking back through the day and going back to find the places you may have misplaced the key.
If you've exhausted your search options and can't find your car keys, it's time to call a locksmith or a dealership for assistance. If you can show proof of ownership, they can offer you a replacement. You can also go to Home Depot to have a basic key copied if you're driving a model which doesn't have transponder chips.
Even if you don't lose your keys frequently it's an excellent idea to keep a spare key on your side. There are a number of ways to do this but most involve giving the duplicate to a trusted friend or family member. Another option is to invest in an Bluetooth key tracker, which can be positioned on your keys and connected to an app that will tell you where your keys are at any time.
Making copies
Keys are a vital part of a vehicle, and it's easy to lose. Many car owners are in situations where they lose their keys or stop working at the most inconvenient time. It doesn't matter if it's at the gas station, or when loading groceries into the trunk, or after working for a long time, losing your keys can be very frustrating and inconvenient.
The good news is that if you have an extra key, it can help in these instances. If you don't have one, you can make copies of your keys quickly, easily and cheaply at most hardware stores or locksmiths. It is also advisable to keep an additional set of keys in your wallet just in case.
Many people believe that they must go to the dealership in order to get a replacement car key. However, this isn't always true. It is contingent on the kind of key you have, and how to replace a lost car key complex it is.
Modern cars come with keys that have more than just steel blades. They also have chips that need to be programmed to start the car. These are not the types of keys you can just cut at a self-service kiosk at the mall, and they do not typically work with other keys.
The easiest way to make a key copy is to visit your local AutoZone and have an associate use a machine that can read the contours of the key, then compare it to a blank key and cut it for you. This is a simple process that will only take you some minutes to complete. Some places have a tool that can program your key to match your car model.
You can also purchase copies of your car key at family-owned hardware stores, large chain of home improvement stores and even some grocery stores. However, it is important to remember that the copies are only good for ignitions and doors not remote key fobs. It is recommended to contact locksmiths if you wish to duplicate a smart keys, or a dealer's chip. These keys should only be made by a professional who has the right tools and equipment.
Getting a Replacement
You have a few alternatives if you lose your car key. You can go to the dealership that sells your car or you can go to an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost you a different amount. It also depends on the kind of key you own. Some have a simple double-edged key and others are more complex.
You can find a list of locksmiths for cars in your local area by conducting an online search. Find one that is specialized in automobiles and, ideally, has an auto division. You can then contact them to request a quote for the production of a brand new key. Some have mobile units which can travel to your location and make you a key on the spot. This is a great option when you have a conventional key that does not have a chip inside it.
Many cars have keyfobs, which are a small electronic gadget that allows you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. The fob is also used to start the engine and control other functions of your vehicle. A fob is difficult to find. You can avoid this by keeping an extra fob in your purse.
Dealerships can replace keys that have been lost, but it can be expensive. They might also charge a premium for this service, which is the reason many people choose to use an automotive locksmith instead. Some of these companies specialize in repairing keys to cars. This could be an affordable alternative to going to dealers.
You'll have to take your car to the dealer to get it replaced if you have an electronic key. They will need to program the new key to your vehicle. This usually involves opening/closing doors, or turning off/on electronics and lights. You will be asked to supply the VIN number for your vehicle along with a photo ID as well as any other keys you might have.
It is frustrating to lose car keys, and even more so when you are on a the pressure of a strict schedule. There's no need to be in a panic. Be sure to search diligently for your keys, purchase an identification tag for your keys so that they are easier to locate, and also consider buying a spare fob so that this situation doesn't occur again.
Get Assistance
Sometimes, we are distracted or in a hurry and end up losing keys to our cars. These kinds of accidents can be very frustrating, whether you accidentally drop them in a river when fishing, or leave them in an eatery while eating. There are steps you can do to avoid this occurring in the future and to limit damage in the event of it happening.
One of the most important ways to protect yourself is to make sure you have a spare key in your bag. This will save you the difficulty of retracing your steps or having to pay for expensive locksmith services. You can also invest in a Bluetooth key-finder tag that can assist you in finding your keys. They can be purchased online for a relatively affordable price.
The majority of hardware stores will cut a brand new mechanical key for people who own older vehicles. However, many cars today use key fobs that have many features built in. If they are lost, they can be expensive to replace.
If you have roadside coverage the insurance company could provide a locksmith with the cost of creating copies. This may be less expensive than having a new key made at a dealer, depending on the type of keys you own.
Another option is to reach out to the car dealership where you bought your car and ask them to assist you in creating the new key. It may cost more than hiring a locksmith prices for lost car keys but it's easier to deal with a dealership you know.
A locksmith can deprogram the old key to render it unusable. This can be a risky process, so it's probably best to get a professional to handle this for you. Some locksmiths are able do this without taking off the key, but it is usually easier to let a dealership do it to make sure it's done correctly.